PURPLE LEGIONNAIRE UPDATE
CHRIS HUPE '94
Summer seemed to fly by this year and before I could blink, our “Summer Summit” event was underway July 13th, hosted by the BCA. This weekend retreat sets the stage with the chapter to position returning brothers to “hit the ground running.” We had tremendous participation from both undergraduates and alumni as this joint retreat continues to evolve, and I am extremely thankful for all who returned to Manhattan for the weekend.
This was followed by a trip to the windy city for Ekklesia and a great privilege to share with our undergraduate delegates, our Section Leader and chapter founder, Dave Schreck (‘69), and Archon, Zach Berard (’24).
It was an honor to reflect on the work of brother, Zach Berard (‘24), as he concluded his term as an undergraduate Archon. Zach was master of ceremonies of the opening banquet. It was clear in our conversation with our International Board of Directors, Zach did both himself and Kansas State proud during his tenure and many expressed heartfelt appreciation for his contributions to the Fraternity. I think it was best expressed by one Archon who told me “Zach was not thought of as an undergraduate Archon by the board...He was truly an Archon, who happened to be an undergraduate.” Well done Zach, as we share great pride in your work.
Speaking of proud...weshould also commend ourdelegates,Alec Hupe (‘27)- House Manager,Dylan Mick (’26) - PresidentandBenjamin Abraham(‘27) - Recruiting Lead. These brothersshowedup ontime and ready to work ateverylegislative session to grindthroughthe work ofthe Ekklesia. During debate,Kansas Stateevenpresented an amendmenttoa motion on the floor related to ritualmodifications, whichwas ultimatelypassed bytheassembly.Thankyou, brothers, for servingwell in your roleasdelegates.
The day after returning fromEkklesia, wewelcomed familiesand moved18 amazing young men into thechapter.
We have navigatedtremendous change over the pastseveral yearsin Phi Gamma Delta Nationallywith theintroductionof the“new model”. This programmingconsists of changes toboth the joining process and thewaywe identifyand recruit potentialnewmembers. Thelatteris referred to as the“growth system” and modernizes recruitmentto more strategically identify quality men and shifts the vettingprocess to theperiod priorto offering a bid.
Whereas underthe old model, bids were extendedand oftenvetted afterthe potential member moved into thehouse, thenew approach requires substantially more contact and personalengagementduring therush periodincluding production of evidenceof qualification to standardsand fit. The bartobe selected to join our chapterhasbeen elevated tremendously, andthe discussion and debate around each candidateisrobust and the mostreflective and matureIhaveever witnessed.
PURPLE LEGIONNAIRE UPDATE
(cont.)
CHRIS HUPE '94
If we think back to our founders and the way it likely worked at Jefferson College in Canonsburg, PA, they would have certainly searched campus for the very best men who would provide tangible evidence of living our values and then, after careful deliberation, extended an invitation to join, after which they would share with the candidates what our organization is about and ask them to formally join.
In many ways, the new model is a return to the OG if you will...and the proof is in the results. Our active membership is the strongest it has been in many years with a full chapter house of 53 men with 15 out of house, engaged seniors. We continue to hold serve in the metrics that matter of grades, graduation rate, campus involvement, and fraternal achievement within the KSU fraternity standards matrix.
Our chapter property is in great shape and competitive for purpose thanks to the work of the house corporation and our very generous brothers. It is appreciated as a home and well cared for by our undergraduates. We have an amazing house director in Greg Nelson (‘79), along with a strategic and engaged House Corporation and Board of Chapter Advisors.
The engine at Chi Deuteron is firing on all cylinders thanks to the efforts of Undergraduates, Graduates, Parents and Community supporters. Most importantly, we are making a positive difference in the lives and future trajectory of our members, and they are having fun in the process. We indeed have much to be thankful for as we embark on a new school year. With that...I sign off for now and wish each of you the best!
Perge!
Chris Hupe, KSU (‘93)
WHAT I THINK... JIM TAYLOR '70
The Chi Deuteron Newsletter is primarily a tool to keep graduates, parents, and friends up to date with the activities of the chapter. The Chapter Advisors asked me, as a charter member, if I would be willing to contribute. I thought I would change things up a bit and share what I would tell the undergraduates at a Wednesday night dinner if the 1400 miles separating us did not exist. This is what I think...
First, I would tell you that you are damn lucky to be where you are. You have been given the opportunity to live in a clean, safe environment among carefully chosen smart and personable young men. You are surrounded by competent graduate brothers committed to assist you to be the best that you can be. Every Pig Dinner, I am blown away with your maturity and your achievements. But, it wasn’t always that way. Fifty-Eight years ago, I pledged my loyalty and friendship to an organization that had a handful of local members and nothing but challenges ahead. There was literally no tangible evidence that a fraternity existed. It was all in our determination to make it happen, and it did...Keeping it thriving is your challenge and your responsibility.
Second, I can’t emphasize enough that friendships you are making now will likely last a lifetime. I frequently hear and share the sentiment that my best friends today are my fraternity brothers whom I met and shared experiences with over fifty years ago. For example, a group of us from around the country from the very first pledge classes have a drop-in social hour every Thursday via Zoom. And, you will meet and have a common bond with brothers from other chapters as you travel and live in other parts of the country. I am a member of the Tampa Bay Graduate Chapter, which meets monthly for lunch and consists of FIJI’s from a very diverse group of chapters. It is a fun time! Phi Gamma Delta is truly “Not For College Days Alone”.
Lastly, I want to encourage you to continue your commitment to public service. I realize it is more fun in college when you can socialize with your brothers and sorority girls and still raise money to help others. This is all good. And it is one of our Fraternity Values (see phigam.org for the other four), and one that should be continued as you experience life. After college, it will not always be as fun or easy, but the satisfaction you receive will be your reward. I recommend it with great enthusiasm.
I think my association with my fraternity and my FIJI brothers has been one of the highlights of my life and has been a major influence in making me the person I am today. It is my hope you feel the same fifty years from now.
Jim Taylor (‘70)
WE HAVE A 2X DURRANCE AWARD RECIPIENT AT CHI DEUTERON!
At the Chicago Ekklesia, Chris Hupe was named the Durance Award Winner - Identifying him as the most outstanding Purple Legionnaire of the 138 advisors serving the International Fraternity of Phi Gamma Delta.
Over his past decades of service to our chapter, Chris has truly become outstanding in his volunteer role. Chris said it was an honor to share this award with the dedicated alumni and undergraduate members of the chapter, thankful for the model Chi Deuteron has become and service to its members. It was particularly special to share the honor with his second FIJI son, Alec G. Hupe (KSU ‘27), who attended as a chapter delegate. Alec grew up watching his dad head to Manhattan on Wednesday nights throughout his entire lifetime to serve the chapter. It was indeed a unique moment shared between brothers, and a father and son. Chris was previously honored with the Durrance Award in 2019.
Additionally - in July Chris was named “advisor of distinction” by the North American Interfraternity Conference. The NIC is an International Association representing men’s fraternities across campuses in the United States and Canada. This award recognizes interfraternal excellence and “advisors of the year” out of the 3,000+ who work with students in the fraternal space and play a significant role in the advancement of the NIC vision and community impact, as well as the industry. Jud Horras, President and CEO of the NIC attended Ekklesia as keynote speaker of the opening banquet and formally presented this recognition to Brother Hupe. This is another huge honor for our chapter and Kansas State University as we continue to elevate our operations at Chi Deuteron.
RECRUITMENT UPDATE
BILL GILTNER '89
The Fall Semester is back in swing as Chi Deuteron welcomes 18 new members. Our Recruitment Team led by Logan Latto (‘26), has signed a very accomplished class of young men that will assist our chapter in reaching new heights. New Members cite a genuine connection during the Recruitment process with current Undergraduates. This is a testament that Recruitment is a whole House effort. The appeal of our chapter house and excellent physical condition were also considered to be a big reason to sign Phi Gam. Additionally, new members shared that other K-State fraternities such as Phi Delt, Theta Xi, Farmhouse and others were finalists in their decision, but they ultimately chose Phi Gamma Delta!
Recruitment is now a year-round process. Fall ‘25 efforts will be underway very soon with lots of activities taking place in Fall ‘24 and early Spring ‘25. The goal is to have the Fall ‘25 class finalized and signed by April 1st. We are interested in academically performing leaders with a 3.4 to 3.5 or greater GPA and leadership involvement in High School. Please forward names, cell phone number and email addresses of qualified candidates to rushksufiji@gmail.com. You can also message Logan Latto at (913) 294-9945 with additional information about potential candidates. Your referrals are needed and greatly appreciated!
BUILDING COURAGEOUS LEADERS AND NEW MEMBER WELCOME WEEK
Chi Deuteron was excited to welcome 18 new members along with their families Monday August 12th, with a luncheon and question and answer session to introduce everyone to Collegiate Life at Kansas State along with the programming and expectations of being a member of Phi Gamma Delta.
This was immediately followed by kicking off Building Courageous Leaders Week with a 7pm session. This started an intensive 25 hours of structured programming and activities for the entire chapter over the following 4 days that built relationships, understanding of each other, and aligned and educated on important topics around choices, health and safety. This programming is a key in building true friendships based on understanding of each other in record time. This is a foundational component of the brotherhood for which our chapter has become known.
The BCL program was developed in 2019 by Chris Hupe (‘93), with expert guidance from John Hatfield (a national fraternity leadership consultant and K-State alum), to successfully onboard an integrate new members, rapidly creating chapter-wide relationships on an authentic level. From senior to freshman, everyone is committed to the value of the process and participates. This year’s programming covered topics such as: Why FIJI, Expectations of a FIJI, why we need Battle Buddies in our lives, Personal Values, understanding title nine and today’s world of civil and criminal liability, becoming a courageous leader, risk management, shared fears and concerns about college and life, you’re always wearing your letters, defining your personal values and achieving greatness. A variety of techniques are used in these sessions including fun and challenging group activities and listening exercises using the Socratic circle technique to examine the ideas, questions and answers that form the basis of human beliefs. It is an intense time commitment for our members, but all would agree it supercharges the kick-off to a successful semester and is a uniquely fun aspect and benefit to life as a FIJI at Kansas State.
Carter Daniels
Sam Ables
Tristan Adkins
Olathe KS
Shawnee, KS
Major: CNS
Major: Civil Engineering
Fun Fact: Has always loved dogs
Fun Fact: Named dog after middle school biology teacher’s nickname for him. Douggy
Overland Park, KS
Major: Finance
Fun Fact: Has four pets: 2 lizards and 2 dogs
Luke Isch
Wamego, KS
Dominique Girard Salina, KS
Major: Agriculture
Fun Fact: Largest deer shot in Kansas by a youth in 2018
Major: Business or CMS
Fun Fact: Went to the White House twice
Ryan Kuhr
Hastings, NE
Eli Junk
Tristan Bernhardt
Salina, KS
Major: Architecture
Fun Fact: Rode a mule at the Grand Canyon
Gabe Green
Cayman Girard
Olathe, KS
Major: Electrical Engineering
Fun Fact: Named after the Cayman Islands
Lee’s Summit, MO
Major: Business
Fun Fact: Played basketball all my life up until this year
Salina, KS
Major: Criminology
Major: Ag Business
Maison Reeves
Hastings, NE
Major: Biology
Fun Fact: Been to a Trump rally
Fun Fact: Has a deformed ear
Carter Oehme
Manhattan, KS
Major: Industrial Engineering
Fun Fact: Captain of the soccer team in high school
Fun Fact: A part of ROTC
Talon White
Wamego, KS
Major: Business
Fun Fact: Two time golf state champ
Ryan Kreisel
Michael Johnson
Overland Park, KS
Major: Engineering
Fun Fact: Went to Royals Wildcard game against A’s in 2014
Overland Park, KS
Major: Accounting or Finance
Fun Fact: I know Kevin Lockett
Nathan O’Brien
Wichita, KS
Major: Business
Fun Fact: Has a cousin in the NFL
Hudson Osborn
Olathe, KS
Major: Civil Engineering
Fun Fact: Played upright bass in jazz for seven years
Joe Shannon
Overland Park, KS
Major: Computer Science
Fun Fact: Favorite vacation spot is St. Martin
Samuel Whitehair
Abilene, KS
Major: Game Warden
Fun Fact: Related to Cody Whitehair
"Not For College Days Alone!"
The 3rd Annual FIJI Grad Tailgate will be Saturday, September 28th for the K-State - Oklahoma State game.
We again have reserved a Tailgating Experience at Bill Snyder Family Stadium with Tailgateguys.com in the Northeast Lawn area (near Parking Lot Gate 8). Cost for admission will be $100 for Brothers and Guests and $50 for Guests ages 20 and under. Included in the Tailgate Experience:
All you can eat catered buffet from One Egg Catering (Owner, Brother Evan Grier '02)
Unlimited beer, liquor, seltzers, wine
Sponsored by Spirits of '76 Liquor Store (Owner, Brother Chris Hupe '94)
Sponsored by Infiniti Vodka and Mur Mur Rum (Owner, Brother Chris Johnson '95)
Unlimited soft drinks and water
Price of this ticket includes shared costs of: Big Tent Rental (set up & tear down)
Satellite TV package to watch all the day's games - including the K-State/Oklahoma State game Tables, chairs, coolers, ice, utensils, trash disposal, etc.
11:00AM Kick-Off
Food will be available at 9:00AM. Leftovers will be available on a first come, first serve basis for halftime Bartender will be onsite at 8:00AM and available to serve drinks
Well deserved recognition for Chi Deuteron and our commitment to Philanthropy and Community Service!
Tents, tables, chairs, etc. will be delivered and set up prior to kick-off
NOTE: You are responsible for your own Tickets for the Game and Parking
Special thanks to the following Brothers:
John Foust '92 for coordinating all the details and working to make this an annual event
Ron Buck '94 and Buck Roofing for sponsorship of the event to help keep the cost of the event to a minimum.
Chris Hupe '94 and Spirit of 76 Liquor Store
Chris Johnson '95 and Infiniti Vodka & Mur Mur Rum
Evan Grier '02 and One Egg Group
Friday Night Event: Brother Tim Engle has invited everyone to his usual RV Parking Spot for a BYOB Tailgate Party.
Location is in the most Northwest corner of the Stadium Parking Lot (corner of Kimball & College)
Message Brother Engle on Facebook (facebook.com/tim.engle.108) or text him at (785) 556-0300 for additional details.
Brothers, please help us spread the word! The last 2 years have been an awesome opportunity to reconnect with brothers and their families, and we want to make this event even better! Rally the fellas together, bring your spouse and family or let them know you're heading to Manhappiness for what will be one of the best Phi Gam events of the year!
If you have any questions, please reach out to Brother John Foust via text or call at (620) 262-7137. Link to register is below. Please register today to insure you secure your spot!
JOHN FOUST '92
LEUKEMIA RESEARCH FUNDRAISER DAVE SCHRECK '69
Chi Deuteron Graduate Brothers,
Last year, the graduate brothers of Chi Deuteron and Pi Deuteron chapters teamed up in the tradition of the FIJI Run for Leukemia of the ‘70s and ‘80s to raise funds in support of leukemia research at the KU Medical Center. Our combined goal was $25,000. The total raised was $31,000. Chi Deuteron’s share of the goal was $10,000. Thirty Brothers and Friends generously donated over $13,000.
Two individuals are near and dear to our efforts here at Chi Deuteron. Ro Thomas is the grandson of John Thomas ‘83, Pi Deuteron. Ro was born on Christmas Day 2021 and diagnosed with leukemia in March 2023 and is currently receiving treatment at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.
Brother Rodney Keith Morgan, Chi Deuteron ‘72, from Dwight, KS. Brother Morgan left us in November 1974 and was the foundation of the FIJI Run for Leukemia for years as brothers from Pi Deuteron and Chi Deuteron ran the game ball for the K-State - KU Game between Manhattan and Lawrence.
Brothers, I am making a $1,000 contribution in honor of Brother Morgan and Chi Deuteron. It would be great if you would match my contribution no later than November 1st. If you cannot, please know how much your generosity would be very much appreciated for any size donation. Please support our chapter tradition of fighting this illness in honor of Rod and for you children like Ro.
If you wish to send a check, make it out to KU Endowment and mail to the address below. On the memo line, note “Chi Deuteron Kansas State University”. Or you can click on the link below to make an online donation. If you have questions, you can contact Ms. Krista Allen at (913) 562-2709 or you can call me at (770) 710-8593.
Ms. Krista Allen
Assistant Vice President
KU Endowment
3901 Rainbow Boulevard MS 3012
Kansas City, KS 66160
Thank you so much for your support of this tax-deductible philanthropy. Rod’s siblings, Bonnie Morgan Johnson and Mitch Morgan, also contributors to this effort and my partners in this effort, thank you.
Dave Shreck ‘69
IMPORTANT DATES
September 2 History of the Fraternity
September 7 KSU FB at Tulane
September 9 Legacy of the Fraternity
September 12 Sigma Kappa Mixer
September 13 KSU FB vs Arizona
September 15 New Member Greek Summit
September 18 New Member Wildcat Dialogues
September 19 Chapter Coach Meeting
September 19 Kite’s Date Party
September 21 KSU FB at BYU
September 23 Business of the Fraternity
September 24 Brother - Mentor Reveal
September 27-28 Dad’s Weekend
September 28 KSU FB vs Oklahoma State
September 28 FIJI Grad Tailgate
October 3 Zeta Tau Alpha Mixer
October 10 FIJI Barn Party
October 12 KSU FB @ Colorado
October 19 KSU FB @ West Virginia
October 20-26 Homecoming Week
October 26 KSU FB vs Kansas
October 31 Halloween
November 2 KSU FB @ Houston
November 16 KSU FB vs Arizona State
November 17 Mom’s Christmas Decorating
November 23 KSU FB vs Cincinnati
November 25-29 Thanksgiving Break
November 30 KSU FB @ Iowa State
December 2-6 Dead Week
December 7 Big XII Championship Game
December 9-13 Finals Week
Dec 16 - Jan 19
Winter Break
January 3 - 5 FIJI Academy 2025
January 21 Classes Resume
April 25-26 Chi Deuteron 57th Pig Dinner
HOUSE CORP UPDATE
GARY WIETHARN ‘77
Brothers,
Three years ago, this past April, your House Corp Board set an aggressive vision to improve our property - inside and out - from a bottom five status as a fraternity property to a top five.
I can confidently report that we have successfully accomplished that feat! We have executed 58 projects and invested $575,696 over the past four summers: $219,000 from your generous donations made by 200 different graduates, with the balance coming from our House Corp and Chapter operating budgets. It has taken passion, focus and money, but we did it! In addition, we have raised $41,450 from 76 donors and exceed the goal for the Kitchen Renovation Project. If you make it back for any of the KSU games this fall, I hope you will stop by the house as you will be most proud! A HUGE THANK YOU TO EVERYONE!!!
2024 CHI DEUTER 2024 CHI DEUTER
Nearly 150 brothers gather Deuteron’s 56th Pig Din Undergraduate Chapter, a make us proud to be FIJIs! SAVE THE Chi Deuteron 57 April 25 & 2
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"Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not: nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not: unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not: the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan ‘Press On!’ has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race” Calvin Coolidge 1894
